Harnessing NK Cell Memory for Cancer Immunotherapy. Issue 12 (December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fehniger, Todd A.; Cooper, Megan A.
• Is Part Of: Trends in immunology. Volume 37:Issue 12(2016)
• Page Start: 877
• Page End: 888
• Publication Date: 2016-12
• Subjects: Immunology -- Periodicals; 571.96
• DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2016.09.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-4906

Abstract

Abstract : Due to their ability to kill cancer cells and produce proinflammatory cytokines, natural killer (NK) cells have long been of clinical interest for their antitumor properties. The recent discovery of NK cell memory demonstrates that NK cell functions, and potentially antitumor responses, can be enhanced long term. Following nonspecific activation with the cytokines IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 or in response to antigens or cytomegalovirus (CMV), human and mouse NK cells exhibit stable, enhanced functional responses with phenotypic and molecular changes. Here we review mechanisms driving the differentiation of NK cell memory-like properties, evidence for antitumor activity, and the challenges and opportunities in harnessing memory-like NK cells for cancer immunotherapy. Trends: Over the past decade it has been recognized that human and murine natural killer (NK) cells have properties of immunologic memory, with long-lasting enhanced functionality following stimulation with antigens, cytomegalovirus, or cytokines. NK cell immunotherapy strategies for the treatment of cancer are currently under clinical investigation and there is now evidence that some types of memory NK cells have enhanced antitumor properties. A better understanding of the mechanisms of NK cell memory formation and the functional properties of different types of memory cells is essential for harnessing the antitumor properties of these lymphocytes for the treatment of human disease.